Delegates Chris Runion and Tony Wilt, along with Senator Mark Obenshain, just shared some big news: several programs in the Shenandoah Valley are getting new funding to help fight the opioid crisis. The money comes from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA), which is investing $33 million statewide to support prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

These grants were awarded through a competitive process and will fund both ongoing work and new projects tackling substance use disorders. Locally, here’s what’s being supported:

Rockingham County:

RHADTC Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Treatment Support – Expanding treatment and recovery resources through the Rockingham-Harrisonburg Drug Treatment Court.
Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Assessment Center – Providing rapid access to mental health and substance use evaluations.
Crisis Co-Response Unit – A collaborative law enforcement and behavioral health team responding to individuals in crisis.

Harrisonburg:

Harrisonburg PEER Recovery Center – Offering peer-led recovery support services, community education, and pathways to long-term sobriety.

Augusta County:

Regional Prevention, Education, and Harm Reduction Services – Targeted outreach to reduce overdoses, promote awareness, and distribute life-saving resources such as naloxone.

The lawmakers said these efforts fit into larger state goals—things like working across regions, improving emergency responses, making treatment more accessible, and focusing on public health.

“We’re thankful for this support—it’s going to make a real difference in saving lives and helping families,” said Delegate Runion. Delegate Wilt added that this funding will directly support the hardworking people and organizations on the front lines. Senator Obenshain emphasized how devastating addiction has been and said this funding brings real hope for recovery.

The OAA reviewed 118 applications and ended up recommending over $33 million in awards. The goal: help Virginia communities continue the fight against addiction and build stronger recovery programs for the future.

Learn more at www.commonwealthoaa.virginia.gov.

SOURCE: Rocktown Now

Need Help? You’re Not Alone.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid addiction or substance use, support is available.

Call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) — it's free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Reach out to local resources like the Harrisonburg PEER Recovery Center or the Rockingham-Harrisonburg Drug Treatment Court for community-based support.
In an emergency, dial 911 and let them know it’s a mental health or substance use crisis — many areas now have trained response teams that include behavioral health professionals.
Carry naloxone (Narcan) if you’re around someone at risk of overdose. It’s available without a prescription at many pharmacies in Virginia.

Recovery is possible, and no one has to face it alone. There are people ready to help you take the next step.

Elvis Duran